Here's How Overwatch's Microtransactions Work

Overwatch comes out today, and if you're one of the millions upon millions of people super pumped for the game, well... good for you! I can't list myself among your ranks, but I'm happy you've found something that makes you happy, and really, that's all that matters, right?

Anyway. While people are bound to find out soon anyway, given that I assume a lot of people have called off work sick and are staring at the clock, but recently, Blizzard went ahead and announced how the Microtransactions in the game would actually work--because yes, those are going to be a thing, don't let the Demo fool you. It's a little spotty that Blizzard waited this long to show off something as important as the microtransactions, but... screw it, they can do what they want, right? It's not like they're Battleborn or anything.

So, how it works is, that the game will give you "boxes" every once in a while, mostly by leveling up, and inside those boxes will be a random selection of cosmetic goodies like skins and sprays. However, if you really want those cosmetic goodies now, you can buy a box with real money whenever you want. Here's the prices:

• 2 boxes - $1.99
• 5 boxes - $4.99
• 11 boxes - $9.99
• 24 boxes - $19.99
• 50 boxes - $39.99

It actually reminds me a whole bunch of what Uncharted 4 does for it's multiplayer--especially since both games are going to continue to give away maps and characters for free. So, while it is a little shady, especially since you can't purchase the specific item you want from these crates (which might mean you have to buy a ton of them before you get that one thing you're looking for), at least there's no pay-to-win element.

One thing Blizzard didn't specify is if you could get the same skin or spray twice: and while I wouldn't assume you could, who knows? Be ready for the possibility.

Anyway. Get those wallets ready, because it's about to go down.